The intercollegiate athletics program for men and women at Eastern New Mexico University exists to complement the mission and goals of the University. Since athletic activities aid in the intellectual, physical and social development of students, there is an important role for intercollegiate athletics to play at the University.

The intercollegiate athletics program is an integral part of a total program of instruction and recreation. Athletics should provide opportunities for highly-skilled students to compete against challenging collegiate opponents. In addition to the development of skill, the program is designed to provide meaningful emotional, social and intellectual development for each individual. Opportunities for the development of student leadership will be afforded through structures, which govern the program.

It is important to recognize that a strong athletic program can make a significant contribution to University recognition by the public, students, faculty, staff and alumni. Yet the program must place emphasis on the quality of the experience gained by each participant. Pressure to win without regard to the academic and physical well being of the student athlete must be avoided.

Sportsmanship and attitude are important elements in the total athletic program. Athletes should show respect for fellow participants, opponents, coaches and officials. The University has a responsibility to ensure that staff members of the athletic program and fans of the teams know and exhibit good sportsmanship at events in which University teams are participating.

Participants and staff members are to consider their involvement in the athletic program as an opportunity worthy of their best efforts. The participants’ and coaches’ actions exhibit their commitment to the team and program objectives. Individuals, teams, and coaches involved in the program must recognize that their actions reflect upon the University intercollegiate program, the University and themselves as individuals.

The program is to be conducted under procedures and actions that exhibit sound educational practice. The program is to be administered in accordance with the policies of conferences and other state, regional and national organizations in which the University holds membership.

The University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and offers 13 intercollegiate sports at the Division II level (six men’s sports: baseball, basketball, cross country, football, soccer, track and field; and seven women’s sports: basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, volleyball). On a regional basis, the University competes in the Lone Star Conference (LSC) and the Southwest Soccer Conference (men’s soccer). In addition, the University offers men’s and women’s rodeo teams, which compete in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA). The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will abide by all rules and regulations of the NCAA, LSC, SSC, NIRA, and the University.

In summary, athletics will provide a wholesome atmosphere for sportsmanship, competition, entertainment, academic achievement and a campus spirit for the development of tradition.

Two documents can provide specific department policies and procedures. The Student Athletic Handbook is presented to all student athletes for direction and explanation. A Department of Athletics Policies and Procedures Manual will be available to athletic personnel and University administrators.